Job Title: Stores Lead
Location: Ashford, Kent
Job Type: Permanent – Full Time
Job ID: SF19512

Shape the Future with QinetiQ. At QinetiQ, we're not just imagining tomorrow — we’re creating it. From cutting-edge defence technology to breakthrough innovation, our mission is to empower and protect lives. Join us as a Stores Lead at our Ashford site and play your part in enabling world-class capability alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry.

About the Role:
We are recruiting for a Stores Lead to join QinetiQ Target Systems (QTS) within our Production Team.
QTS is a wholly owned subsidiary of QinetiQ Group PLC, specialising in the design and manufacture of state-of-the-art Unmanned Aerial and Surface Target Systems — including the world‑leading Banshee target.
Our targets are used in over 40 countries, with QTS delivering complete managed services in more than 15 locations worldwide.

What Will I Be Doing?
Reporting to the Production Manager, you will ensure the effective use of people, systems, and resources to support operations — delivering accurate goods receipt, storage, kitting, inventory control, and despatch activities on time and in full.
You will set and maintain high standards of Safety, Quality, inventory accuracy, and customer service, while driving team performance and accountability.

Key Responsibilities:
Manage end‑to‑end Stores operations, including goods receipt, storage, kitting, inventory control, and despatch — including customer‑owned property.
Lead team performance: PDRs, 1‑1s, development, recruitment, and KPI management.
Oversee inventory management: cycle counting, stock reconciliation, batch/lot/serial control, and ERP data integrity.
Set and sustain high standards for Safety, Quality, performance, and customer service.
Ensure compliance with Health & Safety and Quality requirements, owning Stores risk assessments.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimise efficiency, accuracy, processes, and space utilisation.
Support the Production Manager with additional tasks when required.


What Do I Need?
You’ll bring demonstrable experience in managing team performance, including setting objectives, monitoring KPIs, conducting PDRs, and ensuring accountability.
You’ll also have excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence, guide, and provide clear direction to team members and stakeholders.

You’ll also have knowledge of:
Inventory & materials management: stock accuracy, batch/lot/serial tracking, cycle counting, and material handling best practice.
ERP systems: stock management, transaction processing, reporting, and ensuring data integrity.
Planning & execution: resource organisation to meet operational demands, ensuring goods are delivered OTIF (on time, in full).
Continuous improvement: identifying inefficiencies and driving improvement in accuracy, productivity, and service quality.
H&S and Quality compliance: risk assessments, ISO9001, and manufacturing processes.

A formal qualification in supply chain, operations, or stores/warehouse management would be an advantage.

Why Join QinetiQ?
As QinetiQ expands into new global markets, there has never been a more exciting time to join us. Our success comes from a passion for innovation and a willingness to tackle complex challenges.
You’ll join a unique environment where diverse teams collaborate openly, blending disciplines and exploring new ways to solve problems. You can be yourself, feel valued, and realise your full potential in an inclusive and supportive workplace.
Learn more about life at QinetiQ: www.qinetiq.com/en/careers/life-at-qinetiq

Our Benefits:
Matched contribution pension scheme with life assurance
Competitive holiday allowance + option to purchase additional days
Access to Health Cash Plan, Private Medical Insurance & Dental Insurance
Employee discount portal: insurance, travel, restaurants, cinema tickets & more
Proud supporters of the Armed Forces community — Gold Award employer
Volunteering opportunities supporting charities and local communities


Our Recruitment Process:
We are committed to an inclusive recruitment experience where all candidates feel valued, supported, and able to perform at their best. If you have a disability or health condition requiring adjustments during the process, please speak with your Recruiter.
Many roles at QinetiQ require national security vetting. Applicants with existing appropriate clearance may be able to transfer it. Some roles include additional restrictions relating to nationality or previous nationalities.

For more information on National Security Vetting, visit:
UKSV National Security Vetting – Guidance for Applicants (GOV.UK)